Mastering SEO Keywords for Photographers
Relocating or relaunching your photography business is no small feat, and SEO can feel like a monster to tackle. But understanding SEO keywords for photographers can help you rank higher and get discovered faster.
I’ve moved my photography business 7 times and every time SEO and keywords are the very first thing I tackle – from researching the right keywords to optimizing for my new location. Don’t sleep on this!
Here’s a breakdown of tips to get started.
Or Listen to the Podcast
Listen to episode 5 of Keep It Moving Podcast. Whether you’re relocating, restructuring or refining your photography business, this show is for you! I cover all the major topics from money, to relocating, marketing and more. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Table of Contents
I’m Alison! Photog of 13 years, Milspouse of 15 years and Mom to 4 boys.
I had sell out mini sessions, referrals from strangers, & fully booked. I built predictable photography business that gave me life and income I craved.
But we’re active duty military and it was coming to an end again.
I searched for guidance for months only to find nothing. There had to be a better way.
After 7 moves (2 overseas!) I’ve streamlined a process to help you make more money while moving with the military.
Don’t do it alone. I can help.
What are SEO Keywords for Photographers?
Keywords are the phrases you use in a Google search. My keyword for photography is “Oahu Family Photographer.” Keywords for photographers typically include your genre (family, wedding, newborn, equine) and location. But don’t be fooled- location can mean SO much! It could be a city, county, state, region, or even an area code.
Examples of tricky locations:
- DMV for the DC/Maryland/Virginia metro area
- DELMARVA for Delaware/Maryland/Virginia
- 808 for all of Hawaii
- Lowcountry for anything in or around the Charleston, Savannah, Hilton Head, or Beautfort area of South Carolina.
Choosing the Right Keywords for Your Photography & Location
Location Matters
Target keywords relevant to where your clients search. For example, if you live in a small town, prioritize keywords for the nearest major city. Tools like Keywords Everywhere and Google Search Console are must-haves for this process.
One Keyword Per Page or Blog
Each page should focus on one unique keyword. More than one will confuse the mess out of Google and ultimately hurt you. Make it easy for Google and people searching for your terms.
Crafting Keyword-Optimized Content
- Use Keywords Naturally
- Place your SEO keywords in blog titles, meta descriptions and headers. Avoid keyword stuffing – its outdated and ineffetive. Instead, focus on creating quality content that serves your readers.
- Include Keyword Variations
- Google recognizes concepts, so use related phrases that support your primary keyword
- Write Location-Based Blogs
- Blog posts that highlight local spots or client-relevant topics (like family friendly restaurants) boost your authority and clicks. Both matter and support your rankings in organic search.
SEO Tools to Get Started
- Google Search Console: Install this NOW! Monitor your current rankings and organic traffic. Its Free!
- Keywords Everywhere: Estimate search volume and competition for phrases
- Meta descriptions: Write enticing previews using your keyword
Plan Ahead for a Smooth SEO Transition
Before you move, or relaunch into a new genre of photography, schedule blog posts targeting your new location or niche. Archive old posts that no longer serve your target clientele. Rewrite old posts where it makes sense. Be strategic and timely about your new SEO goals to reestablish authority quickly.
Get Help
If SEO feels overwhelming, and it should if you’re doing it correctly, you can get help! I provide one on one coaching for photographers that are relocating their business, relaunching into a new genre of photography, or just refining their business to be better and more profitable.
Free Download: SEO Keywords for Photographers
If you’re struggling to stay on top of your SEO keywords, grab my FREE Google Sheet to easily track your blog topics, keywords used, search traffic and BONUS social sharing! Winging isn’t a marketing plan. Its simple, powerful and exactly what you need to start showing up where it counts – GOOGLE!
More Resources for Photographers
I'm a USMC spouse, South Carolina native, recovering homeschool mama of a 4 boy circus. They've taught me the most important facet of family photography: KEEP IT FUN!
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